In celebration of Women in Construction Week, we’re highlighting some of our powerful Preston women to gain some insight into how they began their careers in the construction industry and what they’ve learned along the way.

Let us introduce you to Director of Human Resources and Marketing Lauren Trekell. Lauren has been in the construction industry for over seven years and at Preston for four years. She started her career as a pastry chef before making her way to construction.

What inspired you to pursue a career in construction?

I have been involved in the industry throughout the years through friends and family working in construction. I have always had great relationships with those in the industry, and that made it so easy to get involved.

What makes you continue to work in the industry?

A lot of people who I work with at Preston or as a client are like family to me, and it’s just a lot of fun to work with such great people who really take pride in what they do and how hard they work.

What is your favorite part about your job?

Being involved with people is my favorite part of my job. Whether it’s problem-solving, assisting, providing them with opportunities, and doing what I can to make their life a little better or easier makes me happy. I enjoy being a resource and mentor for those who ask for help.

What advice would you give to a woman who is considering a career in the construction industry?

I can’t exactly say that construction is always a glamorous job, but it is definitely a satisfying one. Construction has rewards all over, including the design/pre-construction phase all the way through to the final walk-through of the building. There is a tangible object at the end of each project that you get to see and reflect upon all the hard work that went into it.

What does the 2023 International Women’s Day campaign theme #EmbraceEquity mean to you?

Embracing equity to me means celebrating all involved. We are only at our best when all necessary team members are included and recognized. Here at Preston, we all have a job to do, and when we work as a team and complete our tasks, especially with collaboration and cooperation, the end result can truly be amazing and rewarding.